Echo News

Could Lois be the next Adele?

A GIRL is appealing for companies to sponsor her to become the next Adele.

Lois Chapman, 12, of Runwell, near Wickford, has been given a once-in-a-lifetime chance to join the National Youth Musical Theatre, in London, after beating competition from thousands of youngsters across the country.

The company has trained superstars such as Jude Law, Adele and Jessie J.

Lois fought through several tough auditions before being told she had got her hard-earned place.

However, her position is in limbo because she needs £1,000 to take part.

Mum Clair Chapman said Lois had only been singing for a year, but was already attending auditions.

She said: “We just thought she was good because she was our child, but someone told us we weren’t being biased.

“We don’t want to say no to her on this because she has worked so hard to get it, but it is a problem getting the funds.

“I’m a part-time nail technician and my husband is a stonemason.

“£1,000 is a lot of money and we just can’t afford it.”

Mrs Chapman already ferries Clair to auditions and she is expected to hear back this week about appearing on the Four O’Clock Club on CBBC.

She also attends theatre school several times a week, including Celebration Theatre School, in Stanford.

Mrs Chapman is appealing for any local business interested to consider sponsoring Lois.

She said: “It’s a huge thing for Lois and we’d be so grateful if someone could help.

“She’s beaten so many children to get to this place and we’d really like for her hard work to be rewarded.”

Lois is due to start at the theatre school in April by taking part in several productions.